How would you define Cloud Computing?
Put simply, it is computing via the internet. Instead of relying on downloaded software stored on your own hardware, everything is stored on the internet or ‘in the cloud’. In reality, this means it is stored on other people’s hardware, in far off locations, with multiple backups. Yes contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing as an actual ethereal cyber cloud! Cloud computing provides multiple people in your organisation access to the same applications via the internet from any location. Social media, internet banking and accounting software all rely on cloud technology. Small businesses are increasingly using cloud based apps to provide everyday solutions and manage their workload. This technology has become the new normal and has fundamentally changed the way businesses work, enabling them to be smarter, more cost efficient and more profitable. Legaltech is no exception to this revolution. Businesses are able to provide their own affordable self-service legal solutions via cloud technology. Previously these services would have been inaccessible to SMEs due to financial constraints. As a cloud based platform, Zegal is enabling businesses to be proactive when using legal services. Legal protection can be easily put in place instead of waiting for something to happen and relying on expensive reactive provision. The benefits of cloud computing are countless, here are the top 10 reasons why you should embrace cloud technology at every opportunity.
1. Flexibility
The ability to access all of your apps remotely means that cloud-based services are ideal to enable a flexible workforce. As long as you have an internet connection you are good to go. Flexible working can be offered to your employees as a work-life balance benefit and an office can be set up anywhere you choose!
2. Minimal Set-up Costs
Cloud computing removes the need to finance your own expensive hardware. Cloud based applications are usually subscription based and therefore good for your cash flow. The initial set up is easy and ongoing management is simple. Cloud adoption appeals to every thrifty entrepreneur.
3. Increased Collaboration
Cloud-based workflows and file sharing apps greatly improve collaboration. Your teams can work smarter and more collectively by being able to access, edit and share documents anytime and not just when they are tied to an office. Making updates in real time and gives everyone full visibility of their collaborations.
4. Security
The loss of sensitive data is a serious business. When this data is stored on a laptop and it is lost or stolen there is not a lot you can do. Cloud computing gives you greater security. Your data is stored in the cloud so it is never lost. You can simply log on and access it from another device. You can even remotely wipe data from lost laptops so it doesn’t get into the wrong hands.
5. Operational Agility
Using cloud technology gives you a level of operational agility. You can quickly and easily scale up your cloud capacity as your business grows. Likewise, if you need to scale down again, you have the flexibility to do so.
6. Document Control
Cloud computing allows you to streamline your processes and implement rigid document control. This is crucial when you have a number of employees collaborating on the same documents. If everyone was working on their own separate version of a document and then it is a recipe for disaster. Storing documents centrally means improved visibility and only one true version of each document. In addition, global expansion means you may even have collaborators in different time zones. Centralisation is key to making this work.
7. Continuity
Preparing for a potential disastrous loss of data should be in every business strategy, but finance and expertise are often prohibitive. Cloud-based backup and recovery solutions are ideal for small businesses. Such solutions are far more cost effective and time efficient.
8. Software Updates
Maintaining your own system is expensive and time consuming. Cloud computing means that the servers are looked after by someone else. Software and security updates are automatically taken care of, so you don’t have to waste time and resources thinking about it.
9. Competitiveness
Becoming more competitive is the key to success. Moving to the cloud allows smaller businesses access to the latest business applications which disrupts the market and levels the playing field. Pay-as-you-go services means the latest technology is not exclusive to bigger, more established competitors.
10. Great for the Environment
Going green comes with many inherent benefits and adopting cloud technology reduces your environmental impact and improves your reputation. Your cloud use is tailored to your needs so you only use the energy you need. Requirements for wasteful printed material is also minimised. At Zegal, all your legal documents are e-signed and stored in the cloud so there is no need to waste time and resources printing them out.
Like the Sound of the Cloud?
If you want to streamline your business, work smarter, improve efficiency and ultimately increase your profits then adopting cloud technology is a no-brainer. Moving all your business functions into the cloud will future proof your business, give you an edge on the competition and greatly improve your working life. You’ve got your head in the clouds if you think otherwise!
Zegal is a cloud based platform providing affordable legal solutions to protect your business. Sign up today for a free Legal and Health Check and trial today
